set of striped pajamas behind a barbed wire fence

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

by John Boyne

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Student Question

What does John Boyne mean by "the metaphorical fence" in The Boy in the Striped Pajamas?

Quick answer:

In "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas," the "metaphorical fence" signifies the artificial barriers that separate individuals based on race, religion, or other social constructs. Literally, the fence divides Bruno and Shmuel, representing the division between Jews and their German oppressors. Metaphorically, it highlights the broader societal divides and how those in power use such constructs to maintain control over perceived inferiors.

Expert Answers

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A metaphor can be defined as a figure of speech that describes an object or action in a way that isn't literally true but helps explain an idea or make a comparison. In The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, fences are used in both a literal and a metaphorical sense. Literally, Bruno and Shmuel are divided by a fence that separates the inmates of Auschwitz from the outside world. The Jews are on one side of the fence; their German oppressors are on the other.

In metaphorical terms, the fence represents the enormous gulf between Bruno and Shmuel, between the Germans and the Jews. Yet it is a wholly artificial barrier based upon an equally artificial divide between human beings on the basis of supposed racial differences. The fence stands as a metaphor for how we often separate ourselves from each other on the basis of race, religion, gender, or sexuality. It also illustrates how those with power often use such artificial barriers to maintain control over those they deem inferior to themselves.

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